Early games tipping points for SEC football teams
By Ronald Evans
- South Carolina Gamecocks - ESPN has South Carolina projected as a six-win team. The Gamecocks can get out of September with a 3-1 record if they can beat Kentucky in Lexington on Sept. 7.
- Tennessee Vols - Tennessee has two easy wins in September, sandwiched around a neutral site game against North Carolina State. Beating the Wolfpack and winning in Norman on Sept. 21 could put Josh Heupel's team in serious Playoff contention.
- Texas Longhorns - The Horns have but one serious challenge until mid-October. That challenge is in week two against the defending National Champion, Michigan Wolverines. Texas will be favored and a win would reinforce expectations that Texas is a national title contender.
- Texas A&M Aggies - In a transition season for the Aggies, Mike Elko's team gets a week one challenge against Notre Dame. The Fighting Irish will be favored, but an A&M win would suggest the SEC's top teams should be wary of the Aggies.
- Vanderbilt Commodores - The Dores are always in need of a win. Though not likely, a major boost in Vandy's dreams to reach six wins would be a week one upset of Virginia Tech.
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